Does VARC support the treaty process?

Although many ARC members are wary of the treaty process and are
concerned about the structure of the talks and the kinds of concessions being demanded by
the Federal and Provincial governments, it is VARC's official position that, provided that
the leaders and negotiators for the First Nation in question have the legitimate support
of the people whom they represent, VARC supports that Nation's decision to enter into the
treaty process and conclude a treaty.

(Note: This is an unofficial statement of VARC's position on the
treaty process. This page will eventually include a detailed, official statement regarding
VARC's position.)

The Nisga'a Treaty

ARC
Opposes Referendum Call

Articles

In response to the completion of the Nisga'a agreement,
Opposition Leader Gordon Campbell leaked the deal to the press and demanded that it be
renegotiated.

Get
more information on the treaty

What's
Next?

The initialing of the treaty on August 4th was largely
ceremonial: before the treaty becomes finalized, it must be ratified by the Nisga'a people
(probably in October sometime), the BC legislature (probably in December at the earliest),
and in Parliament.

Between then and now, there will
undoubtedly be a wide-range of debate on the issue, and we'll try to sort it our for you.
How is the media covering the story? What is the validity of some of the arguments being
made?

What do you think? Is a treaty a good idea or a bad idea? Or is it
an issue shrouded in mystery for you? Let us know what you think - we'll be posting your
letters, as well as responses to your questions.